Best Beginner Hiking Trails in Florida for Young Families

When I became a mom, I thought hiking had to be put on hold. Florida heat, bugs, and tiny legs didn’t seem like a good combo. And let's be real, it can be "not doable" sometimes. Especially with the summer heat.

But... What I’ve learned, both as a parent and someone who led outdoor groups for years, is that hiking with kids can be doable in Florida. You just need to choose the right trails, adjust your pace, and pack light (with snacks, always snacks).

So if you’re wondering where to begin, here are our favorite family-friendly hikes across Florida that are safe, short, shaded, and stroller-compatible (or at least toddler-walkable).

1. Tree Tops Park — Davie, FL (South Florida)

Trail: Oak Ridge Trail + boardwalk loop
Length: ~1.2 miles
Highlights: Shaded canopy, wooden boardwalks, wildlife lookouts

We go here a lot. The trails are wide, mostly flat, and feel like a forest in the middle of suburbia. There are picnic tables, bathrooms, and even a horse trail your kids can peek at. This was one of the first places my toddler “hiked” on his own.

2. Enchanted Forest Sanctuary — Titusville, FL (Central East)

Trail: Magnolia Loop
Length: ~1 mile
Highlights: Shaded loop, butterflies, learning center

This trail is a gem. You can combine your hike with time in the nature center, where there are exhibits and AC (blessing). Keep an eye out for gopher tortoises and butterflies.

3. Lettuce Lake Park — Tampa, FL (Central West)

Trail: Boardwalk Loop
Length: ~1.25 miles
Highlights: Stroller-accessible, birds, observation tower

An amazing option for younger toddlers and stroller walks. The boardwalk winds through cypress swamp, and there's a wildlife observation tower. Bring binoculars for the birders in your crew.

4. Ravine Gardens State Park — Palatka, FL (North Florida)

Trail: Main Loop Trail
Length: 1.8 miles
Highlights: Suspension bridges, stone steps, lush scenery

A hidden gem in North Florida that feels like something out of a fairytale. There’s elevation (rare for Florida!), and the suspension bridges are a hit with kids. Just hold little hands on some of the rockier bits.

5. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve — Fort Myers, FL (Southwest FL)

Trail: Elevated Boardwalk
Length: 1.2 miles
Highlights: Alligator spotting, shade, interpretive signs

This one surprised me. It’s fully on an elevated boardwalk with rails, so it feels super safe. We saw turtles, an alligator, and tons of birds on a short loop. Easy parking and no tricky terrain.

Tips from the Trail (With Littles in Tow)

Here’s what we pack for Florida hikes:

• ONE bamboo sun shirt: protects from sun, bugs, and brush
• Snacks and water for everyone, no matter how short the trail
• Small nature journal or field notes
• Lightweight baby carrier (for trail fatigue or extra snuggles)
• Mini first aid kit and bug balm

And always—sunscreen, hats, and a backup plan. We often pivot from a hike to a nature center or splash pad, and that’s okay.

For more on hiking with young kids, check out our guide to summer hiking with toddlers.

Hiking Is Just Walking (But Better)

If you’re outdoorsy at heart but feel overwhelmed with little kids, let this be your nudge. A hike doesn’t have to be long, remote, or even dirt-covered. It just has to be intentional time outside—together.

These trails helped us fall in love with walking slowly, looking closely, and letting the outdoors set the rhythm.

And remember: it’s not about reaching the end. It’s about what they notice along the way.

Love,
Adriana
Founder of Play Outside